Multitasking on Mobile Devices

As the pace of work and society continues to increase, many people are looking for ways to work more efficiently and become more productive. With the introduction of mobile phones, work can now be conducted while on-the-go such as Word documents, presentations, and conference calls, all of which increases the efficiency possibilities. However, a method to increasing productivity that is often overlooked is the ability to split the mobile screen into separate, smaller screens that can contain different apps for each window which allows for multitasking. With this, this article discusses the different ways users can divide their screen for more activities and a better multitasking experience.

For Android

Many Android devices make it easy to split the screen into different portions where each section can run its own app. For example, if users want to simultaneously run a YouTube video in the background while still being able to browse the internet, they can do so with this function.

To activate the multitasking feature, users first need to run the apps that they want to have open separately. While these apps are running in the background, users need to select the multiscreen button that is next to their home button. Once this button is clicked, users should get a view of all the apps that are currently running in a cards style where they can then select which app they wish to run simultaneously. With the button that is next to the close tab button, users can select which app will appear on the screen at the same time.

Once two apps have been selected, the screen will automatically be divided into two halves with each of the apps its own separate section. Users can then toggle the size of each of the screens by moving the middle either up or down to enlarge and minimize the screen. To get out of this mode, users can select the dividing line between the two screens and move it either all the way to the top of the screen or to the very bottom of the screen to close the screen that is minimized. With this feature, users can then utilize multiple apps at the same time on the same screen for their mobile device. However, not all the apps can be run at the same time so the split screen button will not appear for all apps.

For iOS

On iOS devices, users can similarly divide their screen into separate section so that multiple apps can be used at the same time. Although there is no native function on the device that lets users run a split screen without any additional software, users can download Splitware (iOS) which is an app that enables for multitasking as with the Android devices. With the app, users can then select the app that they want to open on the top and bottom parts of the screen.

Although not all the apps will be available to be split into the two screens, users can select from the most popular apps that can be used simultaneously for a multiscreen experience. For example, users can watch a Youtube video while also browsing Google at the same time or use preset combinations such as Google and Facebook or Instagram and Twitter. Beyond this, users can create their own preset combinations for quicker access to the apps that they wish to use at the same time.

One of the best aspects of the Splitware app is that the device does not need to be jailbroken for it to work so that there is no risk of voiding the warranty or compromising the security of the phone. Although no built-in feature is available to open multiple windows simultaneously on iOS devices, this app is able to help users do so easily as with Android devices.

For those who are looking to increase their productivity by multitasking on their mobile phone, the methods outlined in this article can help to do so. From the Android device that has a built-in feature to Splitware on iOS devices in order to divide the screen, users can multitask effectively to increase their efficiency and ultimately get more done with the limited screen space that they have.

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Following my passion in the realm of business and entrepreneurship, I am always eager to develop skills that enable me to learn, build, and grow. My previous projects, both academic and personal, reflect my dedication towards expanding and applying my theoretical knowledge for practical results in these fields.